Tag: Combat system

One feature that sets sandbox games apart from themeparks is that, while the latter uses a singular experience system to determine the player’s base stats, the former relies on separate leveling and generally does not assign an overall level. RuneScape is the exception to the rule, basing its combat level off of a complicated formula involving eight different skills. The formula for determining combat level (and there are three of these) is:

With RuneScape’s upcoming combat update, currently in closed beta, Jagex will be employing the Keep It Simple, Stupid rule of engagement. Three of the skills are being taken out of the equation and the formula is a simple: X + defense +2, with X being the highest combat skill from the list of attack, strength, magic, and ranged. Another effect of this is that combat levels will rise, to a maximum of 200 (over the current 138). On one hand, this might be the first time an MMO has raised the level cap without increasing the experience limit.

Why is Jagex doing this after ten years? Well RuneScape’s code is over ten years old, and in that time much of the older equipment and spells has become completely useless. By rebuilding the combat system from the ground up, Jagex is able to employ a whole host of new systems without having to deal with legacy code and compatibility issues.

RuneScape’s combat upgrade goes into open beta in under a week, when MMO Fallout will be writing a preview.